Q&A with Shreya Sharma, Research Student at University Health Network (UHN)

Hello Invite Health readers! My name is Shreya Sharma (she/her) and I’m in my 3rd year of Medical Sciences at Western University, in the One Health Honours Specialization. I chose this specific program because it focuses on the intersection of animal health, environmental health, and human health. Any issue in science or healthcare can be looked at from a One Health perspective. I am hoping to pursue more opportunities in this field, which entails anything from healthcare to animal health to environmental policy. 

Outside of studying (which takes up more time than I’d like to admit), I love to try out new hiking spots and spend time with friends and family. I am also an avid reader, as well as a yoga instructor so I’m always looking for new class styles to try.

This past summer (May to August) I was a remote, paid research assistant at University Health Network (UHN). I was involved in knowledge mobilization research as well as the launch of a virtual support clinic. Knowledge mobilization entails feedback between the research and the parties that are affected by the implementation of this research, as opposed to the traditional linear trajectory of bench-to-practice work. Having this back-and-forth component definitely makes the process more complicated, but is ultimately incredibly useful in ensuring that the application of the work is actually well-suited to its target or purpose. In the clinic launch, my role was to assist in the creation of materials for the website, as well as work with health professions students and families to iron out different parts of the program before it officially launched. 

I came across this role through cold emailing - however, I was fairly selective with who I emailed. I know that many people apply broadly, but I wanted to make sure I was seeking out research opportunities that I was strongly interested in. I did not contact any professors at Western because I wasn’t planning to stay in London during the summer, but I would highly recommend contacting faculty at your own university. I looked for opportunities in Toronto (University Health Network, St. Michael’s Hospital, etc - all of their websites should have a list of researchers that would allow you to search for people who match your interests). Cold emailing can be intimidating, and don’t feel discouraged if many researchers do not get back to you since they’re incredibly busy. Many of us have applied to dozens of researchers and only gotten a few (or even no) responses. 

One of the notable highlights was being able to take part in the pilot launch of a virtual autism support clinic. It was really cool to be behind the scenes, which allowed me to do things like talk to families and professionals with lived experiences or create materials that would be used in the clinic. 

While it didn’t directly lead to related opportunities, it did introduce me to the field of knowledge translation and mobilization, as well as how many different healthcare professions can contribute towards the same field of research. This has broadened my perspective about the opportunities available in research, where the emphasis is usually limited to basic science/biomedical research. 

I am always open to talk to new people (Instagram: shreyy_20, or LinkedIn) ! 

Just want to throw in a quick thank you to Sachi for reaching out about this interview :) Hopefully this is helpful to others who are looking for similar opportunities!